As we observe the 20th anniversary of the Martin Luther King, Jr., Federal
Holiday, we reflect on the history of civil rights in America and honor Dr.
King for the power of his intellect, the truth of his words, and the
example of his courage. Dr. King created a powerful and enduring legacy
for all Americans by calling upon our Nation to ensure equal justice under
law and uphold our founding ideals of life, liberty, and the pursuit of
happiness for all people.

Dr. King became an active leader in the civil rights movement in the 1950s,
strengthened in his resolve by the quiet courage of Rosa Parks' refusal to
give up her seat on a Montgomery, Alabama, bus. He advocated non-violent
action as a means to overcome the evil of racism in America, and he led the
effort that resulted in the Civil Rights Act of 1964. Dr. King later said
that the legislation was the work of every citizen who took to the streets
and marched for justice and equality. The Voting Rights Act, which became
law the next year, guaranteed all citizens the right to vote, regardless of
race, and helped our country realize the promise of the 15th Amendment to
our Constitution.

Dr. King believed that all people are made in God's image and created
equal. He dedicated his life to empowering people, no matter their
circumstances, and challenged them to lift up their neighbors and
communities. He broke down barriers within our society by encouraging
Americans to look past their differences and refused to rest until our
Nation fulfilled its pledge of liberty and justice for all.

As we observe and honor Dr. King's birthday, we are reminded that great
causes often involve great sacrifices. In the five decades since Dr. King
and Mrs. Parks stood together in
Montgomery, Alabama, our country has made great progress toward equality
for every citizen. Yet more work remains. In the words of Dr. King, "We
will not be satisfied until 'justice rolls down like waters and
righteousness like a mighty stream.'"

NOW, THEREFORE, I, GEORGE W. BUSH, President of the United States of
America, by virtue of the authority vested in me by the Constitution and
laws of the United States, do hereby proclaim Monday, January 16, 2006, as
the Martin Luther King, Jr.,
Federal Holiday. I encourage all Americans to observe this day with
appropriate civic, community, and service programs and activities in honor
of the memory and legacy of Dr. King.

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this thirteenth day of
January, in the year of our Lord two thousand six, and of the Independence
of the United States of America the two hundred and thirtieth.